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Children's Ministries
It would be hard to overestimate the love and care the Congregational Church of Belmont has for its youth. We try to be intentional about showing our interest in our young people and our desire to be involved in their lives.
We have two trained caregivers who tend to the very young during worship. School-age children are encouraged to participate in the worship experience, including communion. During Time With Our Children, our young people come to the altar for a story or a conversation that begins with the chiming of the Tibetan tingsha bells. As the tone dies down, the children are encouraged to listen in silence to hear the voice of God.Safe Church Policy
The Congregational Church of Belmont seeks to be a place of full welcome for all the children of God. To that end we commit to provide an atmosphere that balances safety with radical hospitality and respect. In so doing we strive to gain a deeper understanding of God’s grace, human need, and healthy boundaries. We understand that by taking steps to formalize strategies of prevention and response, we not only create a safer environment for our congregation, but also for our caregivers, volunteers, and church.
Click here to read our entire Safe Church Policy.
Sunday School
Our children go to Sunday School after Time With the Children during worship every Sunday where Godly Play, a Montessori-based curriculum, informs our program. Dedicated teachers prepare lessons and music, which will echo the lectionary readings that will be offered during the worship service later that morning. Children and parents are focused on the same Scripture readings on the same Sunday. Click here to find out more about Godly Play.
Children's Choir and Pageant
Through Christmas Pageants and the Children's Choir, our young have the opportunity to learn about worship and the scriptures in a fun and enchanting way through song and role-playing.
Click here for more information on our Children's Choir and to view a recent video of them singing "I am One Voice."
Youth Ministries
Youth Groups
By the time the children are 10, they are invited into a youth group, which seeks to merge a Christ-filled life of purpose with the curiosity, and questioning they are beginning to feel about all parts of their lives. And, of course, we add a healthy dash of just plain fun.
Sacred circle for Teens
Sacred Circle for teens, a special focus of our youth ministry, meets at 3:30 p.m. every Tuesday in the church parlor.
Summer Camp
The church also budgets to provide church summer camp opportunities and family camp at Camp Cazadero near the Russian River in September. The Rev. Kristi Denham is eager to talk about our commitment to our children. Email your questions to her or to the Board of Christian Education.
If you have questions and would like to contact one of the parents at our church for additional information on our programs for children and youth, click here to send an email to Sarah Thornhill.